In January of 2025, Cochrane RCMP Crime Reduction Unit began an investigation into the re-vinning and fraudulent registration of stolen vehicles in the area of Cochrane. With the assistance of community partners, the police launched an investigation into the suspect.
Through the investigation, it was learned that the operation spanned across Alberta and into Saskatchewan. With assistance from the Wynyard RCMP, Saskatchewan RCMP's Auto Theft Unit and Saskatoon Police Service, a Ford Expedition and a Lexus RX350 were recovered, resulting in the arrest of a suspect.
In March 2025, Cochrane RCMP recovered a Ford F150 and then executed a search warrant at a Calgary residence, resulting in the seizure of a re-vinned Dodge Ram. The total value of recovered vehicles across the two provinces exceeds $200,000.
A 32-year-old individual, a resident of Calgary, was charged with the following:
• Fraud Over $5000;
• Altering a VIN;
• Uttering Forged Documents;
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5000; and
• Possession for the Purposes of Trafficking a Controlled Substance.
The individual is scheduled to appear on April 28, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Cochrane.
"The success of this investigation demonstrates the exceptional work of our investigators and the strong relationships we have with our partner law enforcement agencies and the community" says Inspector Dave Brunner, Commanding Officer of the Cochrane RCMP.